Cave Creek Day Trip from Tempe: Scenic Hikes, Wild West Charm & Family-Friendly Adventures
As a lifelong Arizona resident, I've explored countless treasures in my home state. Cave Creek evokes cherished childhood memories, and after 12 years of marriage and raising our eight-year-old daughter, a family visit was long overdue.
On a recent Sunday, we ventured to Cave Creek, just 45 minutes to an hour north of Tempe. This gem boasts stunning Sonoran Desert hiking trails, vast open spaces, and an authentic Wild West vibe.
We kicked off at Arizona Bread Co. in Tempe, a local favorite serving breakfast and lunch daily. Their irresistible pastry case and menu—featuring fluffy omelets, breakfast sandwiches, waffles, and pancakes—fueled us perfectly for the day ahead. Refreshed, we drove north to Cave Creek Regional Park.
Cave Creek Regional Park is a hiker's paradise with diverse trails for all levels. Start at the Nature Center for expert recommendations—the friendly staff tailored the perfect route for our family: the Overton Trail and Clay Mine Trail. Trailheads are conveniently located behind the center, with clear markings and benches for snacks or rests. As we ascended, we marveled at iconic cacti like towering saguaros, cholla, and prickly pear.
At the fenced-off Clay Mine entrance, we discovered a slice of Arizona history: a pioneering female entrepreneur once mined clay here for health remedies. Turning back, we returned to the Nature Center invigorated. Ambitious hikers can extend the adventure with horseback rides via Cave Creek Trailrides.
Post-hike, lunch called at family-owned Grotto Café on Cave Creek Road. Their enticing menu (breakfast 6:30 a.m.–noon, lunch 11 a.m.–5 p.m. daily) tempted us with generous portions—a fresh salad, turkey panini, and grilled cheese were hits, with bites shared all around. Rock 'n' roll memorabilia adorns the interior, complemented by a spacious patio ideal for Arizona sunshine. Service was warm and attentive.
A few blocks away on Cave Creek Road lies Frontier Town, a step into the Old West. Movie-set saloons, souvenir shops, Boot Hill Cemetery, metal sculptures, wooden wagons, and photo hotspots await. We browsed Happy Hogan's Navajo-style hogan for handmade jewelry, gemstones, and unique finds, plus scented candles from Cave Creek Candles & Gifts.
Back in Tempe, dinner at Spokes on Southern—a casual, bicycle- and beer-themed spot—capped our day. Savor burgers, salads, or "Southwest-ish" tacos and enchiladas alongside 24 taps of local and popular craft brews. Relax on the lakeside patio or lounge with couches and board games; it's perfect for lingering.
View our route map below for this Tempe-to-Cave-Creek day trip. Find more day trip ideas on the Tempe Tourism website. Happy exploring!
